Esher, Reginald Baliol Brett, Viscount, 1852-1930

Ambassador Reid updates President Roosevelt on a number of matters happening in England, including the nervous breakdown of Lord Edward Marjoribanks Tweedmouth, whose recent trouble relating to a letter from German Emperor William II was only the latest in a long string of misfortunes. He also offers insight into the English interest in the American Presidential election, and explains that he has told questioners that he believes Roosevelt will answer the call if his party ultimately nominates him against his wishes. Reid also discusses the lack of a profitable liberal newspaper in England.

Collection

Library of Congress Manuscript Division

Creation Date

1908-06-01

Creator(s)

Reid, Whitelaw, 1837-1912

Ambassador Reid updates President Roosevelt about the recent turmoil in Great Britain surrounding an exchange of letters between Edward Marjoribanks, Baron Tweedmouth, and Emperor William II of Germany. The Emperor wrote privately to Lord Tweedmouth, and in passing mentioned the British Navy. News of this mention spread to the press, who seized upon news of the letter to blow the incident out of proportion and make it seem as if Germany were trying to influence British naval policy. Reid sends a selection of newspaper clippings following the development of the issue in the press. Additionally, Reid reports that Henry Campbell-Bannerman’s condition is not improving, and it appears that H. H. Asquith will be his successor as Prime Minister.

Collection

Library of Congress Manuscript Division

Creation Date

1908-03-10

Creator(s)

Reid, Whitelaw, 1837-1912

The Times has published an account alleging that German Emperor William II has attempted to influence British naval policy by writing a letter to Edward Marjoribanks, Baron Tweedmouth, and strongly criticized him for this. Acting Prime Minister H. H. Asquith responded to the charge in the House of Commons acknowledging the letter, but stating that it was purely a personal and private communication, and that it did not seek to influence British naval policy. The Daily Mail provides some additional context for the letter, and how it came to be known to the public.

Collection

Library of Congress Manuscript Division

Creation Date

1908-03-07

Creator(s)

Daily Mail